Village Creek State Park, located in Lumberton, TX with an elevation of 46 feet, serves as a central hub for outdoor activities near Silsbee. The park operates year-round with 25 campsites featuring water and electric hookups. Several campgrounds in the surrounding Big Thicket region provide alternatives for horse owners seeking trail access, though specific equestrian facilities remain limited.
What to do
Kayaking opportunities: Sea Rim State Park combines beach access with marsh paddling trails. "Great kayaking trail map and recommendations from the rangers on where to go. There is hiking as well. Spend an afternoon or a week here," notes Lynn G.
Fishing access: Multiple ponds and creeks offer fishing throughout the area. At The Preserve RV Resort, visitors appreciate the angling options: "Have 3 little boys who enjoy fishing and they have plenty of creeks and ponds near campsites; it isn't the most luxurious parks but if your looking for a state park feel this place is a home run!" according to Zachery S.
Hiking trails: When open, trails provide access to diverse ecosystems. "We enjoyed the privacy of the non powered camp sites," mentions Melanie C. about Village Creek State Park's more secluded areas for hikers seeking quieter experiences.
What campers like
Proximity to Big Thicket: Village Creek State Park serves as a convenient basecamp for exploring the national preserve. "About 30 mins to Big Thicket visitors center and hike access. There are several nice hikes in the park," reports Craig J.
Affordable options: Free camping exists at Whites County Park Campground where campers can stay up to three days at no cost. "I got the camping permit just by calling the phone number at the entrance, they provide me an email to sent my driver license and car type. That's it, they sent me back the permit. Everything is free," explains Diana.
Beach access: Beachfront camping provides unique experiences along the Gulf. "You travel down to coastal road find yourself at this quaint little state park where there are actual sites and bathrooms and outdoor showers... This is one of the few state parks that really does have primitive camping on the beach just yards from the seashore," shares Joshua H. about Sea Rim's beachfront options.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Bug protection is essential, particularly at coastal sites. "At one point my husband had at least 30 on him (and he usually never gets bitten)...after using Off. They were even in the pop up," warns Vanessa L. about Sea Rim's persistent insects.
Site spacing considerations: Several campgrounds feature closely positioned sites. "The RV sites are mostly level on asphalt pads. There is a lot of shade. However, the sites are kinda close together. But...there are trees and shrubs between most of the sites," notes Charles S.
Flooding impacts: Sexton Pond Dispersed provides free primitive camping but may have seasonal accessibility issues. "Down a hard packed gravel road. A few potholes but nothing major. Nice spot in the trees," reports Jennifer M., highlighting the rustic access conditions that can worsen after heavy rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Cell service limitations: Prepare for disconnected time at certain parks. "Mosquitoes abound and there is no cell signal or wi-fi. Prepare to drive 20 minutes to grocery," advises Phoebe M. about Village Creek State Park.
Clean facilities: Whites County Park offers basic amenities for families seeking comfort. "There are restrooms and showers. Calm and chill place to sleep. Fishing and camping, that's the vibe always," shares Diana about the free camping area.
Weather considerations: Gulf coast camping requires weather awareness. "Not a great beach to camp on in stormy weather. No rock/sea wall to slow the surge or wave action," cautions Kelly E. about oceanfront sites.
Tips from RVers
Gate closure times: Check operating hours before arrival. "I've been camping around the country for four months straight now and this is the only park - national, state, regional or otherwise - that I've encountered that literally locks their gate at night," warns Katie M. about Sea Rim's strict 10 pm closure policy.
Hookup availability: Village Creek offers electric and water connections at most sites. "We had 30 amp and water hook-ups. Dump station nearby with two sides," confirms Craig J., noting the convenient arrangement for overnight stays.
Level sites: Most RV sites in the region feature level pads. "Level campsites (some look a tad shorter than most) Friendly staff. We did find 7 nights a bit long, but we will be back in the future," reports Kevin H. about his extended stay.
